Government 'may accept' civil partnerships amendment

The Prime Minister's spokesman has hinted the Government will accept a Labour amendment tonight on extending civil partnerships - a move that should ensure the Same Sex Marriages Bill becomes law.

The Culture Secretary Maria Miller had argued for a lengthy consultation over five years about whether civil partnerships should be extended to included heterosexual couples. Labour today put forward a Manuscript Note - a form of amendment - demanding an immediate consultation.

The Manuscript Note is entirely consistent with the Secretary of State's amendment, which is that there should be a full consultation within five years.

– David Cameron's spokesman

The implication is that the Government and Labour can reach agreement, to ensure the Same Sex Marriage bill goes through.